Here’s a little secret: not every town in Missouri is a retirement paradise.
Some towns are like that one expired coupon you keep forgetting to throw out—seemingly promising until you really need it.
We’ve put together a list of places where the best years of your life could be overshadowed by the daily grind of managing inconveniences.
Strap in, and let’s take a tour of Missouri’s least retiree-friendly towns. Spoiler alert: they’re great for practicing your problem-solving skills!
Table of Contents
1. Macon, Missouri
Macon is a small town in central Missouri. It has a quiet atmosphere but lacks extensive healthcare facilities. The town’s population is aging, with many over 50.
The cost of living is low, which might seem appealing. However, the entertainment options are limited for active retirees. The weather here can also be quite extreme, with hot summers and cold winters.
Key Challenge for Retirees: Limited healthcare options and recreational activities make Macon less desirable for active retirees.
2. Sullivan, Missouri
Sullivan is known for its rural charm but presents challenges for retirees. The town is small and services are spread out. It’s not easy to get around without a car.
While the natural surroundings could be a draw, the town lacks modern amenities. Public transportation is nearly nonexistent, which is a significant issue for those who no longer drive.
Key Challenge for Retirees: The lack of public transport and essential services poses a problem for daily living.
3. Chillicothe, Missouri
Chillicothe is the home of sliced bread, but that’s not enough to make it retiree-friendly. The town has a higher than average crime rate, which is concerning for safety.
Its healthcare facilities are insufficient for the aging population. Although the cost of living is relatively low, other factors do not support a comfortable retirement lifestyle.
Key Challenge for Retirees: Safety concerns and inadequate healthcare facilities are major drawbacks for retirees.
4. Clinton, Missouri
Clinton boasts historical sites and a few leisure activities, but it falls short in crucial areas for retirees. Medical services are limited, especially specialists.
The public transport system is lacking, making it difficult for those who do not drive. The town also experiences relatively high property taxes, impacting fixed-income residents.
Key Challenge for Retirees: High property taxes and insufficient medical services make living here challenging for retirees.
5. Farmington, Missouri
Farmington offers beautiful landscapes and parks, yet it’s not the best place for retirees looking for convenience. The healthcare system here struggles to meet the needs of its senior population.
Accessibility to amenities like grocery stores and pharmacies can be a challenge, especially in the rural parts of town. The community activities are also more suited to younger families.
Key Challenge for Retirees: Limited healthcare and daily conveniences pose challenges for senior residents.
6. Unionville, Missouri
Unionville is a tiny town with a close-knit community. However, it lacks in modern healthcare facilities, which are a must for retirees.
The town’s infrastructure is not well-suited for those with mobility issues. Additionally, the entertainment and social activities that cater to seniors are minimal.
Key Challenge for Retirees: Inadequate healthcare and poor infrastructure make it difficult for retirees to enjoy their golden years.
7. Moberly, Missouri
Moberly’s history as a railroad town adds character, but its current state might not be as appealing to retirees. The economic development here is slow, affecting the quality of life.
The town has a limited number of doctors and medical facilities. For those considering retirement, this can be a significant concern, especially for specialized care.
Key Challenge for Retirees: Economic sluggishness and a lack of medical facilities contribute to its challenges.
8. De Soto, Missouri
De Soto is nestled in Jefferson County and has scenic views. However, it faces issues like low employment rates and limited healthcare services.
The town is quiet, perhaps too quiet for some. Social interaction opportunities for retirees are few, which can lead to feelings of isolation.
Key Challenge for Retirees: Limited social activities and essential services make De Soto less attractive for active retirees.
9. Aurora, Missouri
Aurora is a town with a rich railroad heritage and a strong sense of community. Yet, it’s not ideally equipped for retirement living due to limited healthcare options.
The local economy is primarily based on agriculture and manufacturing, which does not provide much for the retired community. The town also lacks cultural and recreational activities suitable for retirees.
Key Challenge for Retirees: The lack of healthcare and recreational activities for seniors are significant downsides.
10. Nevada, Missouri
Nevada offers historical attractions and a low cost of living. However, it struggles with high crime rates, which is a major concern for retirees seeking safety.
The town’s healthcare facilities are not up to par, with a scarcity of medical specialists and resources. This makes it challenging for retirees requiring regular medical care.
Key Challenge for Retirees: Safety concerns and inadequate healthcare are critical issues here.
11. Carthage, Missouri
Carthage is known for its beautiful Victorian architecture and rich Civil War history. Despite its charm, the town lacks in essential services that are crucial for retirees.
Public transportation options are limited, making it hard for those who do not drive to navigate the town. Additionally, the healthcare facilities in Carthage are not sufficient for the aging population.
Key Challenge for Retirees: Insufficient healthcare and public transportation make Carthage less practical for retirees.
12. Bolivar, Missouri
Bolivar may appeal to some with its university and cultural events, but it falls short in catering to the needs of retirees. The town has a limited number of medical specialists.
Although the cost of living is reasonable, the available amenities do not support a retiree’s lifestyle. The town is also quite spread out, which can be challenging without reliable transportation.
Key Challenge for Retirees: Lack of specialized medical care and inadequate public amenities are major concerns.
13. Excelsior Springs, Missouri
Excelsior Springs is famed for its mineral waters and historic hotels. However, the town’s healthcare infrastructure is not developed enough to support its senior residents.
The local economy is not very vibrant, affecting the availability of services and amenities. Public transportation is also minimal, which complicates mobility for retirees.
Key Challenge for Retirees: Poor healthcare facilities and limited economic activity pose challenges for retirees.
14. Marshfield, Missouri
Marshfield offers a historic downtown and a yearly cherry blossom festival. Yet, it’s not the best place for retirees due to its limited medical facilities and public services.
The town is small and while community events are common, they often cater more to younger families. The public transportation system is inadequate for those relying on it for daily tasks.
Key Challenge for Retirees: Inadequate healthcare and transportation options are significant downsides for retirees living here.
15. Pacific, Missouri
Pacific is a small town near the Meramec River with scenic views. However, it struggles with accessibility issues for retirees, such as uneven sidewalks and limited public transportation.
The town has some healthcare facilities, but they are not enough to meet the needs of an aging population. Recreational activities suited to retirees are also sparse.
Key Challenge for Retirees: Accessibility and healthcare limitations make Pacific a challenging place for retirees.
16. Perryville, Missouri
Perryville boasts historical landmarks and a tight-knit community feel. However, the town’s healthcare system is underdeveloped, and there are few activities targeted towards retirees.
Most amenities cater to younger populations, and the town lacks diversity in cultural and social opportunities for the elderly. Public transportation is almost nonexistent.
Key Challenge for Retirees: Limited healthcare and recreational options for seniors.
17. Salem, Missouri
Salem is surrounded by natural beauty, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. However, it falls short in urban comforts, which are essential for many retirees.
The town has limited medical facilities and lacks in entertainment and socializing options geared towards the senior demographic. The public infrastructure is also lacking.
Key Challenge for Retirees: The lack of medical services and suitable social activities makes Salem less appealing to retirees.
18. Bonne Terre, Missouri
Bonne Terre has interesting mining history and offers underground tours. Yet, it doesn’t meet the needs of retirees looking for comprehensive healthcare and convenient amenities.
The town is somewhat isolated, and the local economy is not very robust, which affects the availability of services. The healthcare options are particularly limited.
Key Challenge for Retirees: Insufficient healthcare and isolation from major urban centers are major drawbacks.
19. Warrenton, Missouri
Warrenton is located near wine country and has a growing community. However, it lacks sufficient healthcare facilities, which is a significant issue for retirees.
The town is also lacking in cultural and recreational activities that are suitable for the older population. While it is expanding, it still does not adequately cater to the needs of retirees.
Key Challenge for Retirees: Inadequate healthcare and lack of senior-friendly activities are major issues here.
20. Aurora Springs, Missouri
Aurora Springs might attract those looking for a quiet, rural lifestyle. However, its remoteness can be a disadvantage, especially in terms of accessing medical care and daily necessities.
The town has minimal healthcare options and few social or cultural activities for retirees. This can lead to a sense of isolation and difficulty in accessing essential services.
Key Challenge for Retirees: The remote location and lack of healthcare services make Aurora Springs a challenging place for retirement.
Pretty much the entire state is bad for healthcare for retirees. Springfield, St Louis or Kansas City are about the only ones with larger more equipped hospitals. Branson is a place filled with entertainment but the southern and eastern parts of Missouri are well known for horrible storms and tornados. So far most of this state is very clannish. Fort Leonardwood there is a whole kind of horrible. Corrupt towns and they actually do not like the military here or retirees. It is a very beautiful state and could be amazing for all ages. But it definitely is not. The folks here do not like anybody outside their little towns, so transplants even from the same state are not welcome.
Thanks for sharing this.
Poplar Bluff, Cape Girardeau, Fredricktown, Farmington, Columbia, Jefferson Ciry, etc have large hospitals that are adequate for seniors.
I lived in Perryville in retirement n Live it! Had to move to help with family needs. Would move be in a min. if I could